VAN BUREN, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Shay Mooney, a native of Natural Dam and member of the Grammy Award-winning group Dan + Shay, addressed the Van Buren Mayor’s Prayer Luncheon, discussing how encouragement from his hometown inspired him to pursue his aspirations.
The lunch was organized by the Van Buren Lions Club, Van Buren Rotary Club, and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs – Van Buren. As stated by Terry Carson of the Lions Club, Chamber President Julie Murray proposed the event as a fundraising initiative, and the three nonprofit organizations joined forces shortly thereafter.
I’ve accomplished many things, I performed at the Grammys. I think I was more anxious for this,” said Mooney. “I had all my family, all my friends, and it just holds more significance when there are people who have known you your entire life and are here to support you. But it was an incredible, incredible event today, and I felt genuinely honored to be there.
The gathering took place at the Van Buren High School Commons, where 360 attendees filled the event to capacity.
I’m extremely happy to know that this event is completely sold out, and that we have a community dedicated to praying for one another and supporting each other during difficult times. That’s something I truly appreciate about this community — how we come together,” said Mayor Joe Hurst. “Whether it’s churches, civic organizations, businesses, or individuals, this community never stops surprising me.
Representatives from the three non-profit organizations thanked the community for their support of the event, stating that such fundraising efforts enable them to keep their initiatives running throughout the city. The funds collected from this fundraiser will be directed towards upcoming projects in Van Buren.
The fundraising flows back into our community, allowing us to assist other areas and bring initiatives to our community that might not otherwise be included in the city’s budget,” said Melanie Brandenburg, president of the GFWC-Women’s League of Van Buren. “We are able to offer these resources to our region.
Shay Mooney discussed the significance of believing in someone’s aspirations and motivating them to pursue those goals. He mentioned that the support from his family and members of his community inspired him to follow his passion for music and he attributes a large part of his achievements to the encouragement he received.
I believe it’s crucial to understand that nothing is too large or too significant. If you don’t have people in your life who are encouraging and supporting your aspirations, then I think you should seek out those who will, because there are incredible individuals who will help you rise,” said Mooney. “Just trust me, no dream is too big.
The non-profit organizations presented Mooney with a framed image of Downtown Van Buren following his speech. They also distributed a cardboard cutout of Mooney to one of the guests.
View the complete interview with Shay Mooney in the player above.
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